Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

Which wire gauge is the smallest in diameter?

1. 12 AWG

2. 16 AWG

3. 20 AWG

4. 24 AWG

The correct answer is: 24 AWG

In the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system, as the gauge number increases, the diameter of the wire decreases. Therefore, a higher gauge number corresponds to a thinner wire. In this case, 24 AWG wire is indeed the smallest in diameter compared to the other listed gauges. 12 AWG, 16 AWG, and 20 AWG have larger diameters, which means they can carry more current than a 24 AWG wire. A 24 AWG wire is commonly used in applications that require less current, making it suitable for low-power electronics and signal wiring, but not for high current applications where thicker wires would be necessary. Understanding this hierarchy of wire gauges is crucial for various electrical and electronic applications, ensuring that the correct wire is chosen for the desired performance and safety.